Global day for logistics

THE INTERNATIONAL Day of Supply Chain, Logistics and Transportation will take place on Sunday 3rd November and marks 105 years to the day since the establishment of CILT. This year’s inaugural event, entitled ‘The World In Motion’ will comprise of events, launch initiatives and activity by CILT and other member organisations across the world. 

This inaugural celebration will run under the theme One Network, One Global Community - Celebrating the Impact of Supply Chain, Logistics and Transportation - reflecting the interconnected nature of the industry and its vital role in connecting people, businesses and communities across the world.

According to the United Nations, there are more than 450 million supply chain, logistics and transportation professionals employed around the globe, nearly 13% of the world’s total working population. The International Day of Supply Chain, Logistics and Transportation will celebrate the impact of this community - ensuring that commerce and retail functions smoothly, and that individuals are able to travel for work, education and leisure. 

As part of these celebrations, CILT will be launching an important new initiative – the International Education Standards Committee (IESC). The IESC has been established to maintain and develop CILT’s professional status and qualifications across the Institute.

CILT members across the globe have already started taking part in the International Day of Supply Chain, Logistics and Transportation with their own activities, including:

• A special launch event in Sri Lanka in collaboration with CILT Sri Lanka.
• Career and Life Formula (CALF) Programme launch, led by Women in Logistics and Transport, supporting young managers in the industry become effective leaders.
• The publication of a Shipping & Maritime Webinar eBook (CILT Singapore).

CILT was formed on 3rd November 1919 at the Savoy Hotel in London. A group of senior transport professionals, after witnessing the failures of moving goods and vehicles in the First World War, were determined to change the world of logistics and transport. To do so, they created a professional body that would promote, encourage and co-ordinate the study of the science and art of logistics and transport in all aspects.

The Institute was awarded a Royal Charter in 1926 and more than a century after its creation, now has over 30,000 members in over 40 countries around the globe. CILT is the world’s leading organisation voice for professionals in logistics, transport and supply chain, creating deeper intelligence needed for the world’s future.

The International Day of Supply Chain, Logistics and Transportation has been created to honour and recognise this heritage while also celebrating the impact of the modern logistics and transport industry, driven by millions of forward-thinking, innovative professionals across the globe.    

Chief Teete Owusu-Nortey, international president at CILT says: “CILT’s work in logistics, transport and supply chain has kept industries all over the world moving and communities thriving for over a century. It’s amazing to be part of something that plays such a crucial role in the global economy, and we are excited to celebrate this on our first International Day of Supply Chain, Logistics and Transportation. We hope that all our members, and the wider transport and logistics community, will join us on 3rd November to mark this important milestone – this year, and for years to come!”

Professionalising the Profession

CILT UK has published an institute strategy aimed at Professionalising the Profession. Developed by CILT UK's Board of Trustees in partnership with stakeholders, CILT's vision is to recognise and celebrate the quality, expertise and value of the transport, logistics, and supply chain profession. The strategy underlines the institute's charitable objectives, goals, and methods of delivery on how to strengthen the future capability of the sector.

A core emphasis is placed on collaborating to build strong, beneficial relationships while shaping and delivering professional development products and services. The institute also aims to share insights to amplify its impact across the sector.

Embedded within the strategy is CILT UK's transformational plan, highlighting the short, medium and long-term initiatives the institute expects to deliver over the coming years.

It outlines how CILT(UK) will drive educational excellence, best practices and continuing professional development to upskill the current and next generation of supply chain, transport and logistics professionals.

Fostering greater collaboration with industry, government and educational bodies is also prioritised to nurture talent and boost the profession's influence.

CILT UK chair Vikram Singla, says: “At CILT(UK), our mission is to elevate the logistics, transport and supply chain professions, ensuring its value is recognised and celebrated by society at large and is viewed as a profession of choice for the next generation.

“Our strategic direction over the coming years will strengthen and grow the Institute, enabling CILT(UK) to deliver on its core charitable objectives.

“Together we strive for the continuing advancement of logistics, transport and supply chain operations; ensuring the sector can meet future challenges and opportunities and for the benefit of society in general."

Awards

CILT UK announced the winners of its Awards for Excellence 2024 is September. The awards celebrate outstanding contributions to the fields of logistics, transport and supply chain, recognising the remarkable achievements of organisations and individuals across the sector. The winners were unveiled during a spectacular ceremony in Windsor at the De Vere Beaumont Estate, showcasing the innovation, dedication, and leadership that drives the industry forward.

CILT’s award for outstanding achievement, the Sir Robert Lawrence Award, was presented by Andrew Weatherill, Company Secretary & Director of Finance, to Terry Murphy, logistics and supply chain consultant at Hatmill Logistics.

The CILT (UK) Awards for Excellence 2024 highlighted contributions in key areas, including diversity, environmental improvement, health and wellbeing, technology innovation, and logistics best practices.